Non-occupational Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (nPEP) Infographic

  • What is PEP?
  • PEP is the use of antiretroviral drugs after a single high-risk eventto prevent HIV seroconversion
  • Sexual HIV Acquiring Risks
  • Unprotected (no condom and no PrEP) vaginal assault or intercourse with known PLWH or someone of unknown status
  • Unprotected rectal assault or intercourse with known PLWH or someone of unknown status
  • Common Reasons Providers Give for Not Prescribing PEP
  • Concern of drug side effects
  • Concern of drug resistance: there is a potential risk of drug resistance with poor PEP adherence and HIV exposure
  • Perception of “Low-risk” exposure including providers in lower-prevalence communities
  • No or limited health insurance
  • Lack of knowledge of PEP guidelines
  • Key Concepts
  • Evaluate persons rapidly for PEP when care is sought ≤72 hours after a potential exposure that presents a substantial risk for HIV acquisition
  • Early initiation of PEP is essential (i.e., as soon as possible after the exposure but not later than 72 hours after the exposure)
  • Do an HIV test before initiating PEP (if rapid testing not possible, send blood to lab and initiate PEP immediately – follow-up with results and patient asap stopping PEP only if test result is confirmed positive)
  • All persons offered PEP should be prescribed a 28-day course of a 3-drug antiretroviral regimen, and given the first dose ON SITE ASAP after the exposure
  • Adherence to recommended dosing for 28 days without interruption is essential
  • Providers should emphasize that severe adverse effects are rare from PEP, but review possible side effects and reinforce limitedness of such effects
  • Follow-up is important for additional counseling and monitoring
  • Clinician-to-clinician Assistance with PEP-related Decisions

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Hotline (PEPline):

888-HIV-4911 (888-448-4911)from9:00 AM - 9:00 PM ET, 7 days/week

  • Assessing the risk of exposure
  • Determining the appropriateness of prescribing PEP
  • Selecting the best PEP regimen
  • Providing follow-up testing